Why Did the Machine Work?: A Functional-theistic Interpretation from Computational Functionalism

Computational functionalism assumes a synonymy between abstract functional processes in the central processing unit of a typical digital computer and the human brain, hence the conclusion that an appropriately programmed computer is a mind. Arguably, the point is that neural firings are synonymous w...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Philosophy & theology
Main Author: Oyelakin, Richard Taye (Author)
Format: Electronic Article
Language:English
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Published: Philosophy Documentation Center [2019]
In: Philosophy & theology
Standardized Subjects / Keyword chains:B Computer / Turing machine / Human being / Mind / Functionalism (Philosophy) / Theism
RelBib Classification:CF Christianity and Science
NBC Doctrine of God
NBE Anthropology
VA Philosophy
Online Access: Volltext (Verlag)
Volltext (doi)
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Summary:Computational functionalism assumes a synonymy between abstract functional processes in the central processing unit of a typical digital computer and the human brain, hence the conclusion that an appropriately programmed computer is a mind. Arguably, the point is that neural firings are synonymous with the transfer of electrical currents. Both are accountable and susceptible to a physicalist’s explanation. But, the reason they both worked is ultimately premised upon a causal relationship with nature. However, to understand why nature works raises some problems. Nature is either a self-propelled machine or is propelled by another force. The paper submits that, much as the discourse implies some form of “theism,” the only consistent construal is functional-theism. This, again, raises further problems.
ISSN:2153-828X
Contains:Enthalten in: Philosophy & theology
Persistent identifiers:DOI: 10.5840/philtheol2020618128